G Augmented 7th
Introduction
Notes
G Augmented 7th Inversions
| Position | Notes |
|---|---|
| Root Position | G4 – B4 – D#5 – F5 |
| 1st Inversion | B4 – D#5 – F5 – G5 |
| 2nd Inversion | D#5 – F5 – G5 – B5 |
| 3rd Inversion | G4 – B4 – D#5 – F4 |
Key Signature
The key of G Augmented 7th has 1 sharp: F♯.
Theory: Intervals
The G Augmented 7th is built by stacking intervals from the root note. The formula R-M3-A5-m7 describes the scale degrees used. The intervals P1-M3-A5-m7 show the distance between each note in the chord.
G Augmented 7th — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the G Augmented 7th chord?
The G Augmented 7th chord (G+7) contains four notes: G (root), B (major third), D# (augmented fifth), and F (minor seventh). It combines an augmented triad with a minor seventh.
How does G Augmented 7th differ from G Dominant 7th?
Both contain G, B, and F. G+7 has D# (augmented fifth) while G7 has D (perfect fifth). The raised fifth adds chromatic tension and upward pull.
How is G Augmented 7th used in music?
G+7 is an altered dominant resolving to C Major — the most common key in music. The D# pulls up to E while F pulls down to E, converging on the third of C. This makes G+7 one of the most useful augmented 7th chords.
What genres use Augmented 7th chords?
Augmented 7th chords are common in jazz, gospel, blues, and R&B. G+7 is particularly useful because it resolves to C Major, the most common key.
What songs use Augmented 7th chords?
Augmented 7th chords appear in jazz standards and gospel. G+7 resolving to C appears in many jazz and pop contexts.
What is the difference between +7 and 7#5?
They are the same chord. G+7, G7#5, and Gaug7 all refer to G Augmented 7th.
Practice Tips
- Play G7 then raise D to D# — hear the augmented fifth's extra chromatic pull toward C Major.
- Practice G+7 → C Major. D# and F both resolve to E — the most important converging voice leading in music.
- G+7 is one of the most useful +7 chords because it resolves to C, the most common key.
- In jazz: Dm7 → G+7 → Cmaj7 adds colour to the most common ii–V–I progression.
- Compare G+7 with G7 — try both before C Major to hear the added chromatic richness of the augmented fifth.
- G+7 in gospel: use it as the last chord before resolving to the tonic for maximum emotional impact.